Laws have long been inadequate when it comes to penalizing animal abuse.In many states, animal cruelty is a mere misdemeanor.

In New York, Buster’s Law was created following the murder of a cat in 1997.The 18-month old tabby had been doused with kerosene and burned to death by a teenager.Buster’s Law made “aggravated cruelty to animals” a felony punishable by up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

New York State Assemblyman, James Tedisco, is currently working to strengthen Buster’s Law.The connection between harming animals and people has been proven.Infamous serial killers, Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer had a history of abusing animals.The teenager who murdered Buster has since been imprisoned for various crimes, including attempted rape and sexual abuse.

Oreo was an accomplished agility and obedience competitor, a certified therapy dog, and had a paying job working with autistic children.But above all, Oreo was a beloved family pet who is sorely missed.While nothing can be done to bring Oreo back, hopefully the dog community can come together to change the legal percussions for committing such a horrible crime.